You made a mistake or a bad choice, and now criminal charges have been filed against you. Even if you’ve never been in trouble with the law before or you feel the charges are minor or unfair, every criminal charge should be taken extremely seriously. It is normal to feel frustrated and scared, but you need to act now to protect your rights and preserve your lifestyle.
Criminal Charges Are Serious and Potentially Life-Altering
There is no such thing as a minor criminal charge. Criminal convictions can carry severe consequences. In addition to the possibility of jail time and probation, possible repercussions can touch all aspects of life. If convicted, Florida citizens can face:
- Loss of employment
- Loss of professional licensing
- Expulsion from college or graduate school
- Denial of admission to professional groups or higher education institutions
- Missed work
- Loss of income
Types of Cases Our Florida Criminal Defense Law Firm Handles
The Izquierdo Law Firm, P.A., represents good people all over Florida in many different types of cases. Daniel Izquierdo can understand the serious nature of criminal charges and strives to prepare the best, most complete defense possible for those charged with:
- Federal financial crimes – Known commonly as white collar crime, this type of offense involves fraud by business and government professionals. There is a wide range of federal financial crimes, involving everything from pyramid schemes to money laundering to mortgage fraud.
- DUI – Driving Under the Influence is the crime most likely to impact those we are close to and genuinely good people that have never found themselves in any legal trouble. Unfortunately, Florida has some of the toughest DUI laws in the country and there is a lot at stake.
- Domestic violence – Many times, a misunderstanding from an outside party leads to a call to the police and an arrest. The State’s attorney, not the alleged victim, decides whether to pursue criminal charges.
- Drug offenses – These charges include issues relating to drug possession, paraphernalia, trafficking, manufacturing, and more. Additionally, drug charges can be brought for a variety of narcotics, from marijuana to cocaine to prescription drugs.
- Theft – Florida law defines theft as when a person “knowingly obtains or uses the property of another with intent to either temporarily or permanently deprive the other person” of the property. Common theft charges include shoplifting, burglary, robbery, grand theft and carjacking.
- Financial crimes – Financial crimes involve non-violent crimes that result in a financial loss for the other party. Common financial crimes include forgery, embezzlement, credit card theft, and identity theft.
- Misdemeanors – By definition these charges are "minor" or not as serious as felony charges. However, the consequences are just serious and their effects permanent.
- Probation violations – There are two types of probation violations. Substantive violations occur if you are arrested for a new offense while on probation. Technical violations occur when you fail to meet the obligations of your parole (not paying fines, missing classes, failing to report to a parole officer, etc.) Both types are serious, and the court has a low burden of proof to meet in these cases.
Daniel Izquierdo proudly represents clients in these cases and more. Many of these charges are complex, and the possible consequences can be life-changing for you and your loved ones. It is important to seek the aid of a skilled attorney who can help navigate the legal system, prepare an aggressive defense and protect your rights.
What If I am Not a Citizen of the United States?
In this country, every person has the right to his day in court. Our legal system should provide fair treatment to all, regardless of immigration status. Daniel Izquierdo recognizes that these situations are life-changing, and he is committed to helping clients prepare a vigorous defense.
If convicted of some crimes, a non-citizen may face:
- Denial of U.S. citizenship
- Loss of immigration status
- Deportation
It is often necessary to work in conjunction with a skilled criminal immigration law attorney. The team at the Izquierdo Law Firm, P.A., is committed to working with non-citizens to help protect their immigration status and avoid jail time as much as possible.
Contact our Criminal Defense Miami Office Today
There is no such thing as a minor criminal charge. Any criminal conviction can have serious and long-lasting repercussions. The Izquierdo Law Firm, P.A., understands what is at stake and makes it our mission to help the good people of Florida protect themselves and their loved ones. Daniel Izquierdo works with clients side-by-side to help them understand their charges, investigate their cases, and prepare vigorous defenses. If you’re ready to protect your future with the aid of a compassionate, experienced attorney, call our Miami office at (305) 707-7345. You can also fill out an online contact form today for a prompt response from Daniel Izquierdo.